"An Taibhse" ("The Ghost"), the first-ever Irish-language horror film, will have its US premiere at the Newport Film Festival in California this month.
The team behind the Irish language film says that being featured at Newport Film Festival "not only gives 'An Taibhse' valuable international exposure, but also positions it in the spotlight during the critical awards season, further emphasizing the global relevance of Irish-language cinema."
They add: "This widespread international demand underscores the power of Irish-language art, and, coupled with films like 'The Quiet Girl' and 'KNEECAP,' marks the beginning of a new era for the Irish language on the global stage."
Executive produced by six-time Academy Award nominee Jim Sheridan, "An Taibhse" is described as a bone-chilling tale set against the haunting backdrop of Ireland's Famine era.
Tom Kerrisk, Livvy Hill, and Anthony Murphy star in the film which was written and directed by John Farrelly.
A still from "An Taibhse."
Here's how Newport Film Festival summarizes the Irish language film: "Prepare to be immersed in a bone-chilling tale set against the haunting backdrop of Ireland's infamous famine era.
"Transporting you to the desolation of 1852 Ireland, the film follows Éamon and his daughter Máire, who embark on a seemingly tranquil caretaker role at an isolated Georgian Mansion during the unforgiving winter months.
"Little do they know that their peaceful assignment will unleash a nightmare of supernatural proportions.
"As the bitter winds pierce through the desolate landscape, a malevolent force awakens within the mansion's walls, stirring dark secrets from the past.
"With every creaking floorboard and flickering candle, suspense tightens its grip, leaving the characters' sanity hanging by a thread."
A still from "An Taibhse."
The Irish language horror film is already making a significant impact on the festival circuit, starting with a sold-out premiere at the Galway Film Fleadh in July.
In August, "An Taibhse" marked its international premiere during the renowned FrightFest when it played to a sold-out, 800-seat Odeon Luxe Leicester Square in London.
The film, the first of its kind, is enjoying rave critical reviews.
"One of the most beautifully shot horror films of 2024," film critic Bee Delores writes.
A review on BlixIsAfraid says: “'An Taibhse' is the most intense film I have seen in a long time. It can be considered the beautiful love child of 'The VVitch' and 'The Shining,' who spent the weekends of their formative years hanging out with 'Hereditary.' When you get the chance, watch this film! And then you can thank me."
It's "a scary and shocking fright film, with a superb twist, that represents a viable alternative to more luxurious studio fare," Bradley Hadcroft writes on The People's Movies.
"An Taibhse" will be shown at the Newport Film Festival on Saturday, October 15 at 8:15 pm at Triangle 5.
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